Beginner Crochet FAQs

You can pick up a book and do your best to learn stitches and patterns. But the best way to learn crochet is to watch someone else do it. The visual component of learning helps you internalize the motions of crochet to the point that you can do them with your eyes closed.

There are tons of resources on the internet, but perhaps the best way to learn is to take a beginner-friendly class. Crafting professionals present the necessary skills clearly and precisely, so you’ll be crocheting independently in no time.

The primary difference between crochet and knitting is the tools. Knitting uses two knitting needles, while crochet uses only a hook. The two crafts also use different stitches, which create different looks for your final product—knit pieces are stretchier with more drape, while crochet pieces are stiffer and hold their form better.

Despite their differences, you can make all the same types of projects with either knitting or crochet—from cozy blankets to wearables like scarves and sweaters. You can also use any kind of yarn you’d like for both.

Crocheting is not hard. As with any craft, a learning curve will occur when you start. You’ll have to get used to holding the hook, manipulating the yarn, and reading a pattern. With practice and patience, these skills will come quickly.

Modern crochet came to prominence in 19th-century Europe. It initially evolved from ancient Middle Eastern embroidery techniques that became known as “tambouring.” This early craft involved loop stitching over a background fabric. Eventually, the background fabric was removed, but the stitches remained.

French artisan Riego de la Branchardiere, working in the early 1800s, converted lace designs into crochet patterns sold in the millions. In addition, during the Irish potato famine, impoverished workers created crochet clothing that helped them survive. After mass Irish immigration to the United States, the craft took hold and became a mainstay.

It really depends on the individual and the project. Knitting requires two needles, which often tests your hand dexterity. If you happen to drop a stitch while knitting, it can ruin your entire project.

On the other hand, many think that knitting is easier to learn than crochet. Also, knitting is much more conducive to making clothing—the chunkier stitches tend to be stiffer than knitting stitches. In reality, each craft has its pros and cons.

No one person can be credited as the inventor of crochet. Historians vary on its origins—some say 1500s Italy, others ancient Persia, and others even cite South America. No matter what the source, crochet evolved from several different crafts—knitting, embroidery, and tapestry—and it continues to evolve to this day.

Again, it isn't easy to pinpoint an exact date. Modern crochet seems to have emerged from the European tradition, where mention doesn’t appear until the 19th century. But earlier crafts that use similar skills greatly contributed to today's crochet. Middle Eastern embroidery, Chinese three-dimensional knit dolls, and South American ritual adornments all pre-date modern crochet by centuries and use similar crocheting techniques.

If you can see it, you can crochet it! While the craft is traditionally used for blankets, hats, or scarves, it is versatile enough to make anything you want. Sweaters, socks, dish towels, placemats, amigurumi dolls, toilet seat covers—the sky’s the limit. Now, you may not find the perfect pattern for a dog sweater, but with a little persistence, you can make your own.

Absolutely. Crochet only requires a few essentials: a hook, yarn, and scissors. If you master some simple techniques and one or two basic stitches, you can start crocheting something within a few hours.

Also, once you have the basics down, it is easy to build upon them and create more complex projects. Your crochet skills will increase exponentially with each project you complete.

In general, crochet is faster, but this also depends on the individual and the project. Knitting can take a long time—if you’re making something complex like a sweater, the process will require tons of patience. Additionally, knitting stitches tend to be smaller than crochet stitches, so it just takes a longer time to build them up.

However, crochet projects tend to use more yarn than knitting projects. So, expert-level projects that need a lot of yarn could take longer than a comparable knitting project.

There are over 100 different crochet stitches. However, most are variations of four basic stitches: the slip stitch, the single, the half double, and the double.

Every pattern is guaranteed to have at least one of these stitches in them. And, when combined in different ways, they create a whole host of different looks. From popcorns to picots to puffs—every stitch will involve one of the core four.

There are many mental benefits you can get from crochet. Studies have shown that consistent, repetitive motions are a great boost to your serotonin. It has also been linked to a decreased likelihood of dementia.

Learning a new skill has proven to create new synapses in your brain, making it easier to learn in the future. And, nothing beats the pride and joy that comes from holding your completed crochet project in your hands!

Crochet is very affordable. You only need one tool and a ball of yarn. With just these two, you can make a hat or a scarf for approximately $5.

Of course, the larger your project, the more yarn you’ll need. But quality yarn is so abundant at your local craft store that you’ll never have an issue finding inexpensive options. The only way it becomes expensive is if you catch the “Yarn Bug”— an addiction to getting as many yarns as there are colors in the rainbow!

Studies have shown that, if done properly, it can help with arthritis symptoms. Crochet and other needling crafts can be used as hand exercise, increasing strength and dexterity.

With any repetitive activity, it’s helpful to stretch and take breaks. There are also ergonomic hooks with handles that help ease hand strain. Above all else, if you’re concerned about your arthritis, consult your doctor to get a professional opinion.

Sure! The internet is a wealth of information, and there are dozens of resources out there that can teach you how to crochet. However, most people find that the best way to learn is visually. Written instructions are often very dry and may be hard to conceptualize. Watching a professional and crocheting along with them is the quickest way to success.

There is an age-old debate between art and craft. While both take tremendous amounts of skill, art often differentiates itself because it’s seen as a form of self-expression—the artist is “saying” something with their work. Traditionally, this delineation would put it into the craft column.

However, as crochet evolves, it is infinitely more possible for the crocheter to express themselves in their work. Some techniques allow you to create large, emotive images with yarn. You can find three-dimensional landscapes that are as beautiful as any van Gogh painting and more tactile. There’s even thread crochet, which allows the user to create exquisite details that are finer than a painter’s brush.

If you find you have things you want to express and this is your medium, then congratulations! You are an artist.

If you are a beginner, the best place to start is to learn about the tools of the trade. Your hook will be your best friend, so learning about the different kinds and how to hold it is an essential step.

Next, you should learn how to create a chain and how to do a single crochet—the most basic stitch. If that’s the only stitch you learn, you’ll still be able to make a blanket big enough for a California King size bed.

It can be extremely relaxing. Many studies have shown how repetitive movements like crocheting can lower your heart rate, boost your serotonin, and provide as much relaxation as meditation or yoga. Combine it with a cup of tea and your favorite show to binge—Great British Bake-Off is highly recommended—and you’ll enter full crafting bliss.

it is extremely fun. It allows you to be creative with both color and design and provides you with the satisfaction of making something with your hands. There’s also something extremely joyous about giving a friend or loved one a one-of-a-kind gift that you spent hours creating with love and attention. This is the craft that keeps on giving.

Definitely! The craft world is seeing another huge boom that rivals the one of the 1960s and 1970s. TikTok influencers share beautiful, creative designs that have a modern yet classic feel. Even Target is getting in on the game—you can find crochet sweaters on their racks starting in 2022. Now more than ever is a great time to pick up a hook.

Yarn comes in a huge array of styles and colors. The two main things you want to consider when choosing yarn are fiber type and weight.

Yarn is made from all kinds of fiber—cotton, wool, silk, nylon, acrylic, and other synthetic blends. Certain fibers are better for certain projects; cotton is great for socks, while synthetic yarns are better for large blankets.

A yarn’s weight refers to its thickness. The thicker the yarn, the bigger your stitches are going to be. Your pattern will suggest a yarn weight that best suits your project.

22. Why are my edges uneven?

The number one reason why your edges are uneven is because you’re either adding or skipping stitches. No matter your experience level, counting your stitches at the end of each row is always in your best interest so you know you have the correct amount before moving forward.

Sometimes that last stitch can be easy to miss, especially if you’re confused about turning chains and where to place your last/first stitch (more on that later).

23. Why can’t I get the hang of my tension?

This is probably the most frustrating thing for beginners and even those crocheting for a long time. If you’re just starting to learn, tension comes with practice. The more you make, the better you’ll get. Start by making things that you don’t mind having mistakes. Like washcloths or dishcloths!

24. Why are my edges uneven?

The number one reason why your edges are uneven is because you’re either adding or skipping stitches. No matter your experience level, counting your stitches at the end of each row is always in your best interest so you know you have the correct amount before moving forward.

Sometimes that last stitch can be easy to miss, especially if you’re confused about turning chains and where to place your last/first stitch (more on that later).

25. Why can’t I get the hang of my tension?

This is probably the most frustrating thing for beginners and even those who have been crocheting for a long time. If you’re just starting to learn, tension comes with practice. The more you make, the better you’ll get. Start by making things that you don’t mind will have mistakes. Like washcloths or dishcloths!

I also have a few other resources that might help you learn how to improve and control your tension.

26. Does the turning chain count as a stitch?

This is another one of those questions that no matter how hard you dig, you can’t find the answer! That’s why I wrote an article that completely explains why the information you receive about turning chains is so contradicting.

27. How do I crochet left-handed?

If you’re left-handed, it can sometimes be hard to find patterns and video tutorials. I try my best to include left-handed videos with all of my patterns/tutorials on my YouTube Channel.

Here are some general tips for crocheting left-handed:

• Hold your hook in your dominant hand with your yarn in your non-dominant hand.
• Search for left-handed specific videos to see how other left-handed crocheters hold their hook and yarn and try to mirror them when you’re starting out.

28. How do I read a written crochet pattern?

The first thing you’ll need to do is learn the crochet abbreviations. Every pattern is written with abbreviations because they would be too long if they weren't.

You also need to know the difference between US and UK crochet terminology. So, before you start your next project, make sure you know which terminology the designer is using.

29. How do I finish off a project?

This is also known as tying off or binding off if you’re a former knitter. To do this:

1. After finishing the last stitch of your previous row, lay your project down with the loop still around your hook.
2. Grab a pair of scissors and cut your yarn about 4-6 inches away from your hook.
3. Use that yarn to yarn over your hook, grab that yarn, and pull it all the way through. Pull tight to secure the knot.
4. Now, use your tapestry needle to weave in your ends! – To make sure it’s extra secure, I like to weave in my ends in at least 3 different directions

30. What does worsted weight yarn mean?

I remember when I first started learning how to crochet, yarn weights confused the crap out of me. Especially when I heard ‘worsted weight’? I have always Googled this question and never found an answer, so I’m happy to clarify things for you now.

Yarn comes in different weights, lengths, and fibers.

The weight of the yarn isn’t how much it weighs when you throw it on the scale. The weight actually refers to the thickness of the yarn. Worsted-weight yarn is what they call medium weight or #4 category.It’s sometimes called Aran, too.

31. Is crochet the same as knitting?

No, it is not. You’d be surprised how many times I’ve been asked this question or how many people call crochet straight up knitting. They are completely different yarn crafts.

Knitting uses two pointy needles and crochet uses a single hook. The fabric created by both crafts are also very different.

32. What mindset should i have as a beginner?

1. Learning to crochet for the first time does not require perfect technique. Allowing yourself to make mistakes is crucial, and you can take apart and re-crochet the wrong places.

2. Don't crochet for long periods. Keep a comfortable sitting position and arm position, and give your body and hands enough rest to continue crocheting.

3. Do not think of crocheting as a very complicated thing, try to slow down the speed of crocheting, you can only crochet a part of the crochet each time, keep a relaxed and happy mood to enjoy the process of crocheting."

33. I've never crocheted before. how to get started?

For beginners, we recommend that after receiving the product, first read the instructions to understand the contents of the package and the final product style, and then go to watch the learning video we provide or graphic instruction blog to learn how to control the yarn and hold the hook, for the next step in learning different stitches to lay a good foundation, learn different stitches will greatly increase your chances of success in knitting. I believe that you will be able to complete it.

34. How many kinds of stitches do I need to learn to complete the crochet？

To crochet a piece of the basic granny square, you only need to learn chain stitch, single crochet, double crochet, and tie a slip knot. Then, sew each granny square orderly, and you will have a complete piece.